Your Skip Hire Questions: Everything You Need to Know

It’s totally normal to have a few questions. That’s exactly why we’ve put together this quick guide to help you find the answers you need.

If we missed something or you’re still unsure? No worries! Just give us a call on 0800 260 5989 – our team is always happy to help.

Skip Hire FAQs

What types of skips are available for hire?

We offer a full range of skip sizes to suit any project. From compact 4-yard skips for small household jobs to large roll-on roll-off containers for commercial or construction use.

How do I know what size skip I need?

It all depends on what you’re throwing away. As a rough guide our midi skips (4 yard skip and 6 yard skip) work well for small jobs like household and bathroom refits. Builder’s skips (8 yard skip and 10 yard skip) handle most home improvement projects.

For larger clearances or bulky waste, a 12 yard skip offers extra capacity, and for commercial or industrial-scale waste, our RoRo skips (20-yard and 40-yard) are the way to go.

Still not sure? Ring us for a chat – we’ve been doing this long enough to help you get it right first time.

How long can I hire a skip for?

Usually up to 14 days. If you need it for longer you can request an extension for £30 per extra 5 days.

Can I place a skip on the road?

Yes. You’ll need a permit from the local council. We’ll be able to handle the paperwork for you, you’ll just have to state it when booking your skip.

What can I put in a skip?

Our skips can take most household, garden, and construction waste such as:

  • General household rubbish
  • Garden waste (branches, grass, soil)
  • Construction debris (wood, bricks, tiles, etc.)

Some items are allowed but come with an extra charge due to special handling requirements:

  • Mattresses – from £25 each
  • Fridges and freezers – from £45 each
  • TVs and monitors – from £15 each
  • Tyres – from £10 each
  • Plasterboard (in large quantities) – from £30 per load
  • Carpet or underlay (in bulk) – from £20 per load
  • Electrical items (WEEE waste) – varies, starting from £10 each

If you’re planning to dispose of any of these, just let us know when you book your skip. We’ll confirm the exact fee and ensure everything’s handled safely and legally.

What can't I put in a skip?

Certain materials are prohibited from being placed in skips for health, safety and environmental reasons. These include: 

  • Hazardous waste (asbestos, chemicals, solvents, etc.)
  • Electronics (TVs, computers, etc.)
  • Paints
  • Solvents
  • Liquids
  • Medical waste
  • Batteries

If you’re unsure about any items you can read our full guide here: What Can and Can’t You Put in a Skip?

How much does it cost to hire a skip?

On an average skip hire cost ranges between £150 to £350. But it all depends on the following:

  • The size of the skip
  • The duration of the hire
  • Your location

Please note: To get exact skip hire cost for your postcode, use of skip size and price calculator online.

Can I fill the skip to the top?

Yes! Just make sure it is level, meaning nothing should hang over the sides or stick up above the sides. Overloaded skips will not be collected and extra charges could apply.

How is the skip delivered and collected?

Once you book, we’ll arrange a delivery slot that suits you. Your skip will be dropped off exactly where you requested. Once you’re finished with it, give us a call or book your collection online!

Can I change the delivery date or cancel my booking?

Yes! You just need to let us know as soon as you can! If your order has already been processed, there’s a £30 + VAT cancellation fee and any council permits aren’t refundable.

Do you offer same-day skip delivery?

Yes! We offer same-day or next-day delivery in many areas, but it all depends on availability. To give yourself the best chance, try to book as early in the day as possible!

What payment methods are available for skip hire?

We offer several easy ways to pay. You can use credit or debit cards, bank transfers or PayPal – whatever suits you best. payment can be made securely online when you book or on delivery if arranged in advance.

What happens if my skip is filled before the end of the hire period?

If your skip is filled before the end of the hire period, you can call us at 0800 260 5989 or contact us to arrange an early collection or replacement skip.

Please ensure the skip is not overfilled, as this may prevent collection or result in additional charges. We’re happy to help schedule a pickup that suits your needs.

What should I do if there’s an issue with my skip delivery or collection?

Give us a call straight away on 0800 260 5989. We’ll jump on it quickly and do everything we can to sort it, without delay.

What if I need to dispose of bulky items like furniture, mattresses, or fridges?

No worries! Such items need a bit of extra care, so just let us know when booking. We’ll make sure the right skip is arranged and advise on any extra charges that may apply.

What should I do if I accidentally put prohibited items in the skip?

Let us know as soon as you can! We’ll let you know the best way to safely remove it and avoid extra charges. Mistakes happen and it’s always better to flag it early so we can help sort it out quickly.

Are there weight limits for skips?

Yes, each skip has a weight limit to keep things safe for transport. While bigger skips can hold more waste by volume, they’re not always suitable for very heavy materials like soil or hardcore. Here’s a quick guide:

  • 4-yard skip: up to 4 tonnes
  • 6-yard skip: up to 6 tonnes
  • 8-yard skip: up to 8 tonnes
  • 10-yard & 12-yard skips: up to 8 tonnes (not ideal for heavy waste)

Please note: If you’re unsure, give us a call – we’ll help you choose the right skip for your job and avoid any extra charges.

What happens if the skip is blocked or inaccessible?

If we can’t collect your skip because it’s blocked (for example, by parked cars or locked gates), we’ll try to get in touch to see if it can be cleared. If it’s still inaccessible, we may need to reschedule. This will include a small additional fee could apply for the extra trip.

What happens if the skip is damaged?

Just let us know as soon as possible. Our team will take a look at the issue and sort out any repairs or replacements needed. We’re here to help, so the quicker you reach out, the faster we can resolve it.

Are there any additional charges?

Sometimes, extra charges can apply depending on your booking. Here are a few examples:

  • Permit fee (if your skip is on a public road): £30 – £80 (varies by local council)
  • Overfilled skip: £20 – £100, depending on how much over
  • Extra hire time: £30 for every additional 5 days

Don’t worry! We’ll always let you know about any extra costs before anything’s added.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking 2–3 days ahead to lock in your preferred delivery slot, especially during busy times. That said, if you’re on a tight schedule, give us a ring! We often have same-day or next-day availability and we’ll do our best to get you sorted quickly.

Do I need to be present for skip delivery or collection?

No! As long as, you’ve given us clear instructions and access to the skip, we can drop-off or collect your skip without needing you there.

Do I need to prepare the waste before putting it in the skip?

Yes! It goes a long way! Make sure your waste is safe to handle, free from prohibited items and break down bulky bits where you can to make the most of your skip space.

Do you offer alternative waste disposal options if I can't hire a skip?

Yes! We offer an affordable grab hire service! No skip permit required and perfect for quick clearances. Just get in touch and we’ll help you choose the best option for your waste.

Can I dispose of tyres in the skip?

No! Tyres are not allowed in standard skips as they require special handling and recycling. However, we can still help! Just give us a quick call, and our team will point you in the right direction or help arrange proper disposal.

Ready to hire a skip?

Book your skip now or call us on 0800 260 5989. We’re here to help make your waste disposal simple and hassle-free.

  1. Enter your postcode to check the availability of skip hire in your area and get accurate pricing and delivery options based on your location.
  2. Compare skip sizes, prices and choose the right skip size for your project.
  3. Enter your contact details
  4. Make your payment via debit/credit card, bank transfer, or PayPal. Once your payment is processed, your booking is confirmed, and we’ll arrange your delivery.
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